Lactulose (3.335gm/5ml)

Lactulose (3.335gm/5ml) — Uses and Benefits

Lactulose is a medicine mainly used to treat constipation and a liver-related condition called hepatic encephalopathy.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Relief of occasional or chronic constipation
• Softening stools for easier bowel movement
• Reducing blood ammonia levels in liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy)
• Sometimes used before certain bowel procedures as advised by a doctor

HOW IT WORKS

• Lactulose is a sugar that is not absorbed in the small intestine
• It draws water into the bowel, softening stool and stimulating movement
• In the colon, it is broken down by bacteria producing acids that trap and remove ammonia from the body

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a treatment for infections or infectious diarrhoea
• It is not meant for rapid or emergency relief of constipation
• It is not used for weight loss
• It is not a painkiller or antacid

How to Use Lactulose (3.335gm/5ml)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Mix with water or juice if advised by your doctor to improve taste
• Drink plenty of water while taking this medicine unless your doctor says otherwise
• It may take 1 to 2 days to show effect for constipation, so do not take extra doses

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep the bottle tightly closed
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label

Lactulose (3.335gm/5ml) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Bloating
• Flatulence (gas)
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea, especially with higher doses
• Belching
• Loss of appetite

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe or persistent diarrhoea
• Signs of dehydration such as dizziness, dry mouth, or reduced urination
• Severe abdominal pain or bloating
• Signs of electrolyte imbalance such as muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Lactulose (3.335gm/5ml) — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available in India both as an over-the-counter and prescription product depending on the brand and strength; please confirm with your pharmacist, and use only as advised by a doctor especially for liver-related conditions.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to lactulose or any ingredient in the syrup
• Have galactosemia (a rare condition where the body cannot process galactose)
• Have a blockage in your intestine

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have diabetes, as this syrup contains sugars
• Have any bowel disease or unexplained abdominal pain
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are on a low-galactose diet

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other laxatives, as combining may increase risk of diarrhoea or dehydration
• Certain antacids, which may reduce the effectiveness of lactulose
• Medicines affecting potassium levels, since prolonged diarrhoea can worsen electrolyte imbalance

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine daily for a long time?

It can be used for a longer duration for chronic constipation or liver disease, but only under medical supervision.

Will this medicine work immediately?

No, it usually takes a day or two to show effect, so do not increase the dose on your own.

Can children take this medicine?

• Yes, it can be used in children but only in doses advised by a paediatrician.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.